New Forest District Council to plant 60 trees in tribute to the late Queen

NEW Forest District Council is to plant 60 trees in tribute to the Queen as part of an initiative originally set up to mark her platinum jubilee celebrations.

They will be planted at 30 locations around the district including Fawley, Milford, Ringwood, Hythe and New Milton.

It is part of the Queen’s Green Canopy, a nationwide initiative, which was set up to create a living legacy, with over a million trees already planted by individuals, organisations and schools.

It had been due to finish in December at the end of Her Majesty's jubilee year, but following the wishes of King Charles it has now been extended until March 2023 to include the full tree planting season.

NFDC chair Cllr Alan O’Sullivan said: "Each tree planted in the district as a part of this initiative will celebrate Her late Majesty the Queen’s reign and enhance open spaces for our local communities to enjoy for generations to come.

"This marks one step of many on our journey to tackle climate change and to make our district more sustainable for residents, visitors and wildlife. It’s a step which recognises a remarkable legacy and leads towards a greener future for the New Forest district."

Planning is also currently under way for two of the trees to be planted in Fawley Fields, where the council will also be planting young tree whips, assisted by local schoolchildren, and creating wildflower areas.

Trees for the initiative have been chosen for their suitability for the local area and climate, with a variety of species including oak, cedar, birch, and pine.

NFDC had already planted three trees to mark the late Queen’s platinum jubilee in May.

The trees with a red, white and blue theme can be seen at the council’s Appletree Court offices in Lyndhurst.

Residents interested in planting trees to honour the Queen can find out more at www.queensgreencanopy.org/get-involved